Momo used to entirely empty himself at the dog park to the point of nothing but (my turn for TMI) green slime that I had No idea how to pick up. I would kick some dirt over it and try to pick that up the best I could.
I remember some years back, they invented a product that you would spray over difficult-to-clean poop that would freeze it into a solid piece so it's easier to pick up. I wonder if it's still being sold, I think it was a genius invention!
For the left side I'm going to have the husband hold her leash - she did the C body curl a couple times when I was getting the right side. Better safe . . .. I'm ambidextrous to a point so I'll try left handing it so as not to have to use my thumb and hopefully make it easier on her as a result. Hers is metallic - like wet metal. Much preferred to Gertie's rotten tuna, but still a bit nauseating due to the strength of the odor.
I hear you. It's one of those unpleasant tasks for both dogs and owners. I used to help the vets by distracting the dogs with some tasty tidbits as many hated it, although I am sure they felt relief afterwards. Have you discussed this issue with the vet? What are their thoughts? Do you go on poop patrols and check her poops? There is a fecal score for dogs too and the best stools are described as being dry, easy to pick up (without leaving residues on grass) and log shaped (my turn again for TMI!)
I am going to learn to reward for each, "yes" I issue, regardless of intention. This will build trust. I have a bad habit of saying yes when there isn't going to be a payment. I may be the worst of the students in this equation by the time everything is done! I will also be getting into the habit of praising even when there won't be a reward, but that praise shan't include the word, "yes." 🤦‍♀️ I'm like a Thesaurus until it comes to training and then I'm on repeat.
Sounds a good plan. The yes is a verbal marker which pinpoints exactly what behavior will be getting a treat. This is different from praise which is used to simply tell the dog what a good girl she is. It’s like the difference between a teacher saying “correct” to a student for giving a right answer and giving a sticker right afterward and just plainly telling him what a great student he is. It's therefore important that you choose different words for each.
The pups are sleeping now, lol. Time for me to try to get some work done during this peaceful moment. It was a great session and she was pleased with the progress I made so I get to stay on green instead of being demoted. I think I should get a treat for that. <eyeballs the "leftover" KitKats from Halloween> (We never get trick or treaters . . . )
You sure deserve some treats too for the job well done!